Page 26 - Karmann Komment Vol42 Issue 2

Karmann Komment Volume 42 | Issue 2
MY THIRD AND CURRENT GHIA continued...
Engine and Transmission
The engine and gearbox are original to the car and are matching numbers with comprehensive service history and main dealers all its life.
The gearbox had been leaking oil, but that just turned out to be loose side plates!! A quick tighten up and all was good.
The engine had recently been treated to a top-end overhaul with new pushrod tubes and needed little more than tuning up and a service.
I chose to install electronic ignition, new coil and leads, for peace of mind.
The final job was to drop the engine to check the clutch and flywheel oil seal and whilst the engine was out, replace the gearbox mounts for heavy duty OEM originals.
With the engine out, I also replaced the starter motor and bush for a Bosch reconditioned
unit as the solenoid on the original had an intermittent fault when hot.
Summary
The total recommission was carried out over two winters, and when time allowed through the summer. I am really proud to say I did the majority of the work myself, calling on help from friends when an extra pair of hands were required, or specialist tools. I would like to thank Californian Classics, VW Heritage, Alan Schofield and Wolfsburg Restos for parts.
And my pals at One-on-One Restoration, Hooky's Panel Shop, and IRVS's. Not to forget my pals Rob (MoT), and Brian for assistance when in doubt.
And especially my wife Jo, who has put up with car parts all over the place, but most of all, really supports my hobby; she even paid for the tyres on the Ghia when I purchased it!
Michael Silvester
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